Excuse me while I rant . . .
Posted on September 1st, 2008 by ekkoRecently, a commenter accused me of being a music snob and not liking Bloc Party just because it wasn’t independent. Although he was not polite in his comment, comparing me to a bodily odor in fact, I feel the need to respond: My primary reason for posting independent artists exclusively is that the major labels don’t play nice in the internet playground. They have made it clear that they do not want the help of bloggers unless the bloggers do exactly what the labels say. My second reason is that the vast, vast majority of bands on major labels sound the same. There have been a few exceptions this year, most notably Nas and My Morning Jacket, but those exceptions only prove the rule (especially given the problems Nas had releasing his “untitled” album with a title consistent with his artistic vision). My third reason is that independent artists generally have more drive–less money–and need the help.
As for me being a music snob, of course I am. Who the hell else would spend so many hours a week listening to and writing about music? Are folks who listen to music from a major label and review it for major newspapers any less snobs? I don’t think so.
I know I shouldn’t dignify internet tough guys with a response, and usually I don’t, but sometimes they are so . . . Irritating.
Comment By: inspite
September 1st, 2008 at 10:36 am
hey buddy, i think you are doing an ace job. and furthermore you don’t need to explain yourself to anyone, it’s your blog :p
so what if you are a snob? we are all snobs that’s why we come here.
ps. and the clash aren’t on an indie label either
Comment By: Ekko
September 1st, 2008 at 1:38 pm
The Clash recordings I post are all independent. I do not post any that are published on a label.
But thanks for the support.
Comment By: Hanan
September 1st, 2008 at 3:32 pm
keep up the great work
I’m a total music snob too.
Comment By: P.
October 6th, 2008 at 9:27 am
Indeed, an eloquent response. Anyone critiquing music has to have some standards. Standards don’t make one a snob, nor does being pragmatic or wanting to help artists that are struggling. Thanks for your blog! It is very enjoyable and great to find new artists. Keep up the good work!